Phys 503/629: Gravitation and Cosmology
Syllabus
Physics of black holes, including tests of general relativity, gravitational waves,
cosmological models.
Prerequisites and
Co-requisites
- Prerequisite: Consent of
instructor
- Mathematical Physics,
Mechanics, EM I & II, and Modern Physics I & II are strongly suggested.
Class Schedule:
T TH 08:00-09:15, Lewis Room 126
Textbooks:
James B. Hartle, Gravity: An introduction to Einstein's general relativity (Addison Wesley, 2003)
Course Credit Hours:
3
Evaluation
Grade Type: Whole Letter Grade (A - F)
Grade Ranges:
- A: .. 88%
and up
- B: ......
75-87%
- C: ......
60-74%
- D: ......
40-59%
- F: less
than 40%
These values are
tentative, but will not be higher than indicated here.
Grade
Percentage:
- 60%
Homework
- 20%
Midterm Exam
- 20%
Final Exam
Homework
& Quizzes:
Homework
assignments will be announced in class. Late
homeworks will not normally be accepted, but
students may be excused from turning in an assignment if there is a valid
reason. If you joined the class late, or have extended unavoidable absences
we can make some adjustment. Homeworks must be turned in at the beginning of
class on the day they are due.
Homeworks must be
easy to read; please do not use red pen; staple the pages together. Put your
name and problem set number on your homework. Keep all returned tests and
homeworks.
In-class
tests and final exam:
The final exam will consist of
problems to be worked out. Students will be allowed to use a
calculator and may be provided with an equation sheet by the instructor.
Otherwise no use of books or notes will be allowed during the tests.
Absences:
Attendance policy
for the course is not required, but students are strongly encouraged to
come to class.
Note
- If a change
in the syllabus becomes necessary during the semester, it will be discussed in
class and then posted on this website.
- Do not be
afraid of the instructor! He is there to help you, not to make your
life miserable. (Though sometimes he is tempted to do it...)
